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Saturday, February 2, 2008

Letter from T. A. Trent

Mr. Caverly:

The stillness that pervaded Corinth previous to the 4th was a source of annoyance to those who love excitement, but that day the several regiments prepared to have a picnic. The 39th was up to time of course, and the boom of the cannon at 12 o’clock, and the music of the serveral bands playing in the evening made it all the more handsome to me, as I was unable to leave the hospital.

Towards the close of the day word came of the death of Lieut. Marshal of the 39th; the facts in connection with which are these, as near as I could learn them:

The regiment had a dinner about 2 miles east of town, where Co. H, of the 39th, were guarding mules. Everything went on smoothly until evening when a few of the boys concluded to have a little dance, and some went to sweeping the earth, while others went after the girls.

Of the latter were Lieut’s. Marshal and Blodgett, who were on the road for a couple of fair damsels, when out stepped about a dozen guerrillas, and called to them to halt. - Their horses wheeled, the rebels fired, and Lt. Marshal fell dead, pierced by four bullets.

Blodgett escaped and brought the news to camp. Marshal was a fine young officer, beloved by all, and lately promoted. A sad day’s work for him.

The rebels took his boots, money and revolver, and left before our boys arrived.

Monday, news came of the fall of Vicksburg, which was greeted by 13 guns. Joy was in every man’s face; the sun begins to break through the clouds. Home, wife and children are the scenes that come up before the eyes.

Tuesday -7th- just at daylight we heard firing from the hospital, over where Co. H is camped, and soon news came that the rebels were satisfied with having their Lt. killed and surrendered themselves as prisoners – mules, negros and all. No one hurt on our side.